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PROMIS Physical Function Computer Adaptive Test useful for evaluation of proximal humerus fractures
In patients with proximal humerus fractures, the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function Computer Adaptive Test was found to be useful for the assessment of patients’ levels of upper extremity function while reducing overall patient assessment time, according to study results.
Researchers evaluated 47 patients ages 60 years and older with displaced proximal humerus fractures treated between 2006 and 2009. Patients’ outcome measures were evaluated through the use of the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function Computer Adaptive Test (PROMIS PF CAT), Constant Shoulder Score (CSS), DASH score, and the Short Musculoskeletal Functional Assessment (SMFA) Bothersome and Functional index.
The researchers measured patients’ shoulder strength with the shoulder positioned at 90° of abduction or at the patients’ maximum amount of abduction. For the comparison of median time and physical function measure completion, the researchers used the Kruskal-Willis analysis of variance. To determine association between patient-reported outcomes physical function measures, the researchers used nonparametric correlation analysis.
Results showed, on average, patients answered 86 outcome-related questions, four of which were for PROMIS PF CAT, six for CSS, 30 for DASH and 46 for the SMFA. Kruskal-Willis analysis showed PROMIS PF CAT took significantly less time to complete compared with both DASH and SMFA; however, compared with CSS, the time to complete the test was not significantly different.
According to the researchers, PROMIS PF CAT scores were statistically significantly correlated with all other outcome measures, especially with the CSS.
The researchers concluded the PROMIS PF CAT was capable of producing an assessment of upper extremity function similar to findings provided by traditional measures of physical function. ‒ by Monica Jaramillo
Disclosures: Morgan reports no relevant financial disclosures. Please see the full study for a list of all other authors’ relevant financial disclosures.